Flip adds another assistant

The Wizards announced earlier today that Flip Saunders has added another assistant coach to his staff, hiring long-time associate Don Zierden. Zierden, who resigned as coach of the WNBA’s Minnesota Lynx to take the position, has spent time under Saunders in both Detroit and Minnesota. He also coached under Saunders at the University of Tulsa (1986-88) and in the CBA with the La Crosse Catbirds (1990-94).

Zierden served as head coach of the CBA’s Pittsburgh Piranhas (taking them to the CBA Finals in 1995) and the La Crosse Bobcats.

Saunders on Zierden: “I know what kind of man and what kind of coach Don is from our time together in Minnesota, Detroit, La Crosse and Tulsa. Don has an astute mind for the game of basketball, and that’s why he’s been a successful teacher at the high school ranks, in college, the CBA, the WNBA and the NBA. He brings a wealth of experience and ability to our staff.”

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Zierden on being reunited with Saunders: “I couldn’t pass on the opportunity to work with Flip again. With the staff that he has assembled, and the great talent that is already in place on the roster, I’m extremely enthusiastic to get to Washington and to begin helping this team reach the next level on the court.”